A nice, well maintained provincial park for camping, with a busy day-use area…read more
This beautiful nature setting is just minutes out of Sechelt. The campsites are a good size, with newly painted picnic tables that are in excellent shape. I expected the camping area to be busier, so we made reservations, however, it wasn't even half full when we arrived for weekend camping. We had to share the communal fire pit (with convenient benches in place around the outside) the first evening, but had it to ourselves the second evening. We didn't have any problems with sharing, since the clean air bylaw is the reason, plus the park provides the wood. I was shocked (and then happy I hadn't bought any in town) when we realized the wood was brought over each day by the PFOs (Park Facility Operators). The PFOs were friendly, and helped us to avoid an extra car fee but letting us know the other vehicle could just park across the road from the park on the highway. Score.
We had a double site, which was super awesome for our needs, but you definitely wouldn't want to be in one if you didn't know the people on the other side.
This campground is suitable for camping wusses, since there are showers and real flush toilets available. Otherwise, use the outhouses and the cold water. The water from the taps available around the site is wonderful. There is no need to boil it or to buy water. The park is on the municipal system.
Those wanting to go down to the water should realize that the day-use area does get very busy, and seems to be a popular destination for families and gatherings with ankle-biters. Our attempts to find non-tarp covered shelter from the rain at the covered tables were thwarted by a child's birthday party. A sunny day following meant the beach was also packed, and tour groups with kayaks were setting up.
There is a nice, short trail through the trees and over a creek to get to the estuary. This area is peaceful, and if you look closely you can see salmon fry seeking shelter in the back eddies of the river. The beach seems to be a favourite for clam diggers, as well. I had a quick chat with a friendly BC Parks ranger on my way out of the day-use area.